Hot stove topic (offseason baseball)

[jlarlee]

I don't know if it is the post glow of the sox winning the WS but I am really enjoying this offseason in baseball. It seems that a lot of big trades and signings are happening. Use this thread to discuss. Who else thinks Sexson got way toooo much money?

[FriskyTanuki]

Hey, Seattle needs hitting, and Sexson's a great pickup. Too bad he couldn't help Arizona because of the injury. I'm just hoping Randy Johnson doesn't go to the Yankees. I don't want him to sell his soul for a title. I can handle the Red Sox, but not the Yanks. Especially since they'd make him shave and cut his hair, and that wouldn't look good on Randy.

I'm looking forward to seeing how the SS situation in Cleveland goes, since both candidates deserve it. It's looking good for the Indians to really contend this season, with their pitching getting even better and Wickman back for another season. I can't wait to see where this offseason's FA's go.

[craven_fiend]

the red sox are slowly picking up stride. now if they can just get varitek and lowe resigned or get another decent pitcher (signed clement today), they should be alright in the rotation. but i fear the worst when it comes to the yankees and johnson. actually, its begining to look like shawn green is the only hold up in the trade. so hopefully he invokes his no trade clause. damn i hate the yankees

[CaseyRyback]

for as much as the Yankees have coveted Johnson, I would not doubt it Steinbrenner relaxes that rule for him.

He did for Gossage in 78

[jbroush99]

It's a great time to be living in Wisconsin and looking forward to the Brewers finally turning it around.
They've got an excellent closer and 2004 all-star selection Dan Kolb...oh wait, he got traded. Well, they do have the 2003 rookie of the year and 70 base stealing Scott Podsednik...umm, they traded him too. At least Keith Ginter was showing some power last year and was coming around as a pretty good second baseman...crap, he's gone as well.
I guess I'm going to have to quote the groundskeepers from Major League and say "They're still shitty!"

[CaseyRyback]

It's a great time to be living in Wisconsin and looking forward to the Brewers finally turning it around.
They've got an excellent closer and 2004 all-star selection Dan Kolb...oh wait, he got traded. Well, they do have the 2003 rookie of the year and 70 base stealing Scott Podsednik...umm, they traded him too. At least Keith Ginter was showing some power last year and was coming around as a pretty good second baseman...crap, he's gone as well.
I guess I'm going to have to quote the groundskeepers from Major League and say "They're still shitty!"

Thank got Selig is selling that team. Since he became commissioner and gave it to his daughter,that team has been run into the ground.

[greendj27]

It's a great time to be living in Wisconsin and looking forward to the Brewers finally turning it around.
They've got an excellent closer and 2004 all-star selection Dan Kolb...oh wait, he got traded. Well, they do have the 2003 rookie of the year and 70 base stealing Scott Podsednik...umm, they traded him too. At least Keith Ginter was showing some power last year and was coming around as a pretty good second baseman...crap, he's gone as well.
I guess I'm going to have to quote the groundskeepers from Major League and say "They're still shitty!"

I liked the trades the Brewers made. Podsednik dropped off a ton in his second year and his OB was terrible and they got a good power hitter to bat between Jenkins and Overbay which should improve their offense. The pitcher they got for Kolb is one of the top minor league prospects. They should be improved this year and in a few years when guys like Fielder and Weeks hit the bigs they might start contending for the playoffs. Good things are already happening now that a new owner is taking over. :D

[craven_fiend]

i just wish i had a local team to bash. sucks being in a state without a pro baseball team to criticize. but then again, i'm in between like 5 teams, but i don't really care for any of them except the reds, who seem to be having a fire sale yearly.

[jbroush99]

It's a great time to be living in Wisconsin and looking forward to the Brewers finally turning it around.
They've got an excellent closer and 2004 all-star selection Dan Kolb...oh wait, he got traded. Well, they do have the 2003 rookie of the year and 70 base stealing Scott Podsednik...umm, they traded him too. At least Keith Ginter was showing some power last year and was coming around as a pretty good second baseman...crap, he's gone as well.
I guess I'm going to have to quote the groundskeepers from Major League and say "They're still shitty!"

I liked the trades the Brewers made. Podsednik dropped off a ton in his second year and his OB was terrible and they got a good power hitter to bat between Jenkins and Overbay which should improve their offense. The pitcher they got for Kolb is one of the top minor league prospects. They should be improved this year and in a few years when guys like Fielder and Weeks hit the bigs they might start contending for the playoffs. Good things are already happening now that a new owner is taking over. :D

Good to see at least one person is excited about the 2005 Brewers team. I applaud your optimism!

[craven_fiend]

how about them natio...oh whats that, a hold up in the city council, no team in DC? could it be.

*crosses fingers*

if thats the case, then i'd be all over a nationals hat soon, but who knows it could brighten up and turn out the way it was originally planned.

[integralsmatic]

Hmmm how bout dem mets

Just hear the potential lineup that could be happening
1. Matsui
2. Reyes
3. Ramirez
4. Delgado
5. Alou
6. Piazza
7. Cameron
8. Piazza
9. Pitcher
Dude Cameron and PIazza in the bottom now thats crazy..

[jlarlee]

the red sox are slowly picking up stride. now if they can just get varitek and lowe resigned or get another decent pitcher (signed clement today), they should be alright in the rotation. but i fear the worst when it comes to the yankees and johnson. actually, its begining to look like shawn green is the only hold up in the trade. so hopefully he invokes his no trade clause. damn i hate the yankees

teck should be priority one to sign in my book. Lowe can go as far as im concerned. Schilling, Clement, Wakefield, Arroyo and Wells is a solid rotation. Halama can fill in as a starter as well. Clement had a better ERA than Pedro last year his record was subpar because he didn't get good run support

[FriskyTanuki]

...and they'd still fall apart. I don't know why good players still go there and think they can come out smelling like a rose. They're cursed, that has to be why they fall flat on their faces.

[jlarlee]

for as much as the Yankees have coveted Johnson, I would not doubt it Steinbrenner relaxes that rule for him.

He did for Gossage in 78

Georgie is so desperate he may even grow out his own hair to land Johnson.

[integralsmatic]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

[jlarlee]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

Pedro throws out some horrible games as well. Another thing I noticed about pedro is that the more times a team faces him the better they hit him. Not only did the Yanks start hitting him the Devil rays and the orioles were hitting him as well. So him switching leagues was probably good for him plus facing a pitcher every 9th batter helps.

[CaseyRyback]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

he is a free agent and has been signed according to Peter Gammons

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1948656

The Cubs still have the best rotation in baseball (funny how everyone gives that honor to the Yanks and the Braves because Wood and Prior were hurt). If they can shore up their bullpen and bring in another bat, they will be awesome (I am hoping Nomar is healthy thoughout the season and plays for a large contract)

[jlarlee]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

he is a free agent and has been signed according to Peter Gammons

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1948656

The Cubs still have the best rotation in baseball (funny how everyone gives that honor to the Yanks and the Braves because Wood and Prior were hurt). If they can shore up their bullpen and bring in another bat, they will be awesome (I am hoping Nomar is healthy thoughout the season and plays for a large contract)

Nomar hasn't been the same since he hurt his forearm. The pop isn't in his bat like it used to be

[craven_fiend]

yeah, i hate the fact that pedro is gone and the shit he said today, but thats baseball and i'll accept it. will they be a better team without him, i think so. the have a solid rotation without him and although clement is erratic, they've got a solid bullpen to get him out of jams. will they repeat, i think its possible, but it'll take some work, and that starts with securing varitek, cuz their screwed without him.

edit: these are just my opinions. some take them how you will

[CaseyRyback]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

he is a free agent and has been signed according to Peter Gammons

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1948656

The Cubs still have the best rotation in baseball (funny how everyone gives that honor to the Yanks and the Braves because Wood and Prior were hurt). If they can shore up their bullpen and bring in another bat, they will be awesome (I am hoping Nomar is healthy thoughout the season and plays for a large contract)

Nomar hasn't been the same since he hurt his forearm. The pop isn't in his bat like it used to be

I know he is not the same, but if he puts up decent numbers, and is at least 90 percent back to normal, I think the Cubs could win the series (they are so close to being there, and if healthy the whole year, they have an amazing shot))

[jlarlee]

yeah, i hate the fact that pedro is gone and the shit he said today, but thats baseball and i'll accept it. will they be a better team without him, i think so. the have a solid rotation without him and although clement is erratic, they've got a solid bullpen to get him out of jams. will they repeat, i think its possible, but it'll take some work, and that starts with securing varitek, cuz their screwed without him.

edit: these are just my opinions. some take them how you will

pedro really showed his lack of class today. I for one will be glad to hear the end of his special treatment he gets

[cyberlian]

Another Division Championship for the Braves? Anyone?

[craven_fiend]

it was unprofessional on pedros part to do that, but it happens all too often in sports these days. how theo handled it was a class act. i'm sure hes pissed at the way pedro dissed the sox, but he didn't show it. i hope pedro has a horrible year and the sox do well without him (w/ or w/o him, i'd hope the sox did well)

[CaseyRyback]

Another Division Championship for the Braves? Anyone?

They still have to deal with the Marlins, but it will be a good race

[craven_fiend]

as far as the braves are concerned, they deserve much respect. winning a division consecutively for 13 years is quite a feat. i am not sure of another such streak in pro sports, but if there is, it would be just as astounding as this. the braves in my book, are a great organization.

[The Shiznit]

Clement is so erratic at times tho...he isnt is as consistent as Pedro....also the sox have to give up alot for him because the cubs dont have much after Zambrano prior and wood...

he is a free agent and has been signed according to Peter Gammons

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1948656

The Cubs still have the best rotation in baseball (funny how everyone gives that honor to the Yanks and the Braves because Wood and Prior were hurt). If they can shore up their bullpen and bring in another bat, they will be awesome (I am hoping Nomar is healthy thoughout the season and plays for a large contract)

I used to be able to say that my A's had 1 of the better rotations in baseball but after watching Billy Beane dismantle them in 2 days it's kind of hard to say that now. Zito was the only guy struggling the last couple of years and they keep him and trade the rest. Wow! Sad day if your an A's fan.

[robdees]

Cards picked up Mulder today. With Morris, Carpenter, Suppan, and Marquis thats a starting five that each won at least 15 games last year. I think that best rotation in baseball arguement may need to be revisited. Once the middle infield situation is sured up St. Louis will be the best team in the NL again.

[craven_fiend]

well, its not like the cardinals weren't the best team in the nl this year anyways. and they "only" lost renteria, which will probably be replaced by cabrerra. as for the A's, wow is all I can say. Watch them go and trade Zito tomorrow or something.

[roland13x]

I am consistently shocked by the talent drain from the Nl to the AL. It's pretty disturbing really. The best free agents the NL got are a trio of pitchers, one of which was a horrible signing (Sorry, Pedro will not last the 4 years as a Met).

The Braves are foolish to meddle with their bullpen. Smoltz won't last the year healthy, and Kolb is anything but intimidating as a closer.

[peterjsparks]

I wouldn't be surprised if Suppan is the odd man out of the Cards' rotation come Spring time. robdees forgot to include Woody Williams in that list.

[robdees]

Never question my Cardinals knowledge peterjsparks!! :) See, Woody got released a few weeks ago and picked up by the Padres (within 3 hours). Suppan will probably be the odd man out, but not till next year when his contract takes a significant jump in salary. We also lost Matheny to the Giants last week, a guy that I think was critical to the Cards sucess over the last few years. I'm sure Molina will do a great job, but Matheny's leadership will be missed. The Cards also gave up some decent pitching talent to get Mulder, though it was still a great trade. I'd like to see Cabrera and Placido Palanco (sp?) come it to fill the middle. I love December baseball!!!

[TheRaven]

I liked the trades the Brewers made. Podsednik dropped off a ton in his second year and his OB was terrible and they got a good power hitter to bat between Jenkins and Overbay which should improve their offense. The pitcher they got for Kolb is one of the top minor league prospects. They should be improved this year and in a few years when guys like Fielder and Weeks hit the bigs they might start contending for the playoffs. Good things are already happening now that a new owner is taking over. :D

I agree, as I liked 2 out of the 3 trades. Ginter was expendable and not a big deal. Trading Podsednik was great too, Im surprised they were able to get a threat like Lee and were willing to take on more salary in the process. He will be an improvement over Scott offensively. The only one I didn't really like it the Kolb deal. I'm not sold on that prospect. Sure, he can rip it 100 mph, but that's about it. He will be 24 when spring training hits, so his window for improving and being considered a prospect is already closing. That being said, it was not necessarily a bad time to move Kolb. It would have only made sense to keep him if they wanted to invest into him and since he played a bit over his head last season, I think his contract would have been too inflated and Milwaukee knew it. Good guy and good closer though.

[TheRaven]

I wouldn't be surprised if Suppan is the odd man out of the Cards' rotation come Spring time. robdees forgot to include Woody Williams in that list.

Woddy Williams signed with San Diego. So, no, he didn't forget to include him.

[TheRaven]

Never question my Cardinals knowledge peterjsparks!! :) See, Woody got released a few weeks ago and picked up by the Padres (within 3 hours). Suppan will probably be the odd man out, but not till next year when his contract takes a significant jump in salary. We also lost Matheny to the Giants last week, a guy that I think was critical to the Cards sucess over the last few years. I'm sure Molina will do a great job, but Matheny's leadership will be missed. The Cards also gave up some decent pitching talent to get Mulder, though it was still a great trade. I'd like to see Cabrera and Placido Palanco (sp?) come it to fill the middle. I love December baseball!!!

Matheny won't be missed enough to have matched the offer the Giants gave him. It was a good move to let him go and give the reigns to Molina. It's his time and he definately is more talented than Matheny. Let's just see if he can manage the staff as well.

The Cards raped the A's though. Haren isn't as good as StL has always been touting him to be. He was your best pitching prospect, but that's almost as bad as saying you are the best pitching prospect for the Yankees. OK, it's not that bad, but I'm still not a huge Haren fan. He can become a middle of the rotation starter, but he just doesn't have the goods to be a top guy. Kiko was a nice guy in the pen, but you don't let nice bullpen guys come in the way of a starting ace. The catching prospect is the one that could end up hurting the most, especially in a few years when he is ready for the bigs and if Molina hasn't stepped up his game as expected. Still a great deal for StL though.

[dafoomie]

The Renteria signing was brilliant because it frees up our top prospect, a SS, for a trade. Hanley Ramirez was going to be the future long term shortstop, but Renteria is only 28, and you can't get too much better than him. With Hanley Ramirez as the centerpiece of a trade, we should be able to get a very good starting pitcher, either this offseason or around the trade deadline.

A.J. Burnett's name is floating around... Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. It would be nice to screw the Yankees out of Randy Johnson, but how many 40 year olds can you have on the same pitching staff. Arizona doesn't want what we have anyway.

Matt Clement was a good signing but I don't see him as anything more than a #3.

[TheRaven]

The Renteria signing was brilliant because it frees up our top prospect, a SS, for a trade. Hanley Ramirez was going to be the future long term shortstop, but Renteria is only 28, and you can't get too much better than him. With Hanley Ramirez as the centerpiece of a trade, we should be able to get a very good starting pitcher, either this offseason or around the trade deadline.

A.J. Burnett's name is floating around... Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. It would be nice to screw the Yankees out of Randy Johnson, but how many 40 year olds can you have on the same pitching staff. Arizona doesn't want what we have anyway.

Matt Clement was a good signing but I don't see him as anything more than a #3.

I would rather have Burnett or especially Sheets over RJ anyways. I also think Clement will surprise you. He's no ace, but I think he will be a nice #2 for Boston if given the chance.

[dafoomie]

The Renteria signing was brilliant because it frees up our top prospect, a SS, for a trade. Hanley Ramirez was going to be the future long term shortstop, but Renteria is only 28, and you can't get too much better than him. With Hanley Ramirez as the centerpiece of a trade, we should be able to get a very good starting pitcher, either this offseason or around the trade deadline.

A.J. Burnett's name is floating around... Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. It would be nice to screw the Yankees out of Randy Johnson, but how many 40 year olds can you have on the same pitching staff. Arizona doesn't want what we have anyway.

Matt Clement was a good signing but I don't see him as anything more than a #3.

I would rather have Burnett or especially Sheets over RJ anyways. I also think Clement will surprise you. He's no ace, but I think he will be a nice #2 for Boston if given the chance.
I like Clement a lot, but he's one of those pitchers with "control issues". He walks a lot of people. He'll be a very nice #3, but to compete with the Yankees, you need 2 #1's. I like Burnett a lot too, Schilling would be good for him, as would some better coaching, he hasn't had a good pitching coach or good instruction with the Marlins.

I like this rotation:
Schilling
? (future aquisition like Burnett, Sheets, etc)
Clement
Wells
Arroyo

A lot more than this (as of today):
Schilling
Clement
Wells
Arroyo
Halama or Kim

Plus Schilling will miss all of April. We need another starter right away.

[jho]

It's a great time to be living in Wisconsin and looking forward to the Brewers finally turning it around.
They've got an excellent closer and 2004 all-star selection Dan Kolb...oh wait, he got traded. Well, they do have the 2003 rookie of the year and 70 base stealing Scott Podsednik...umm, they traded him too. At least Keith Ginter was showing some power last year and was coming around as a pretty good second baseman...crap, he's gone as well.
I guess I'm going to have to quote the groundskeepers from Major League and say "They're still shitty!"

I liked the trades the Brewers made. Podsednik dropped off a ton in his second year and his OB was terrible and they got a good power hitter to bat between Jenkins and Overbay which should improve their offense. The pitcher they got for Kolb is one of the top minor league prospects. They should be improved this year and in a few years when guys like Fielder and Weeks hit the bigs they might start contending for the playoffs. Good things are already happening now that a new owner is taking over. :D

Good to see at least one person is excited about the 2005 Brewers team. I applaud your optimism!

At least you have Ben Sheets. Looking forward for the Red Sox trading for him sometime in midseason :wink:

[craven_fiend]

shit as long as the red sox get varitek resigned, then they should be alright. yeah they need to get another starter, but other than that, they're pretty stacked. what other team has 3 1B that could start on just about any other team, that are willing to come off the bench when they are needed. mienkitwz(sp) is a top line 1B and he doesn't mind coming off the bench, atleast right now.

[dafoomie]

shit as long as the red sox get varitek resigned, then they should be alright. yeah they need to get another starter, but other than that, they're pretty stacked. what other team has 3 1B that could start on just about any other team, that are willing to come off the bench when they are needed. mienkitwz(sp) is a top line 1B and he doesn't mind coming off the bench, atleast right now.
Millar or Mientkiewicz will be traded before spring training, probably for relief pitching or low level prospects.

[craven_fiend]

man, that sucks. defensively, i hope it millar, but i know it won't be. he's been there longer. although they do have decent bullpen

[vrs1650]

FUCK winter baseball. God damn Dodgers. Win the NL West and then want to get rid of everyone who got them there. Bunch of idiots. Yes lets let Beltre, Green (potentially) Lima and Finley go. They better have one hell of a plan if they are going to pull that crap.

[tyecko]

Hmmm how bout dem mets

Just hear the potential lineup that could be happening
1. Matsui
2. Reyes
3. Ramirez
4. Delgado
5. Alou
6. Piazza
7. Cameron
8. Piazza
9. Pitcher
Dude Cameron and PIazza in the bottom now thats crazy..

Yeah I suppose you could have Piazza bat twice couldn't you?

[tyecko]

Well Twins are looking like they might be in a bit of trouble next season. Guzman, Koskie, and Blanco are gone through free agency, and we still have to sign Jacque Jones, Romero, Santana, Lohshe, Lecroy, and we might be screwed in the middle infield. Cuddyer will have to play 3rd to replace Koskie and we have no decent shortstops available right now to play. For SS it will either be Jason Bartlett whos just a AAA SS, Juan Castro who was a FA pickup from the Reds, or Nick Punto. Then if they can't sign Jones were pretty screwed because that would mean the outfield would probly have to have Lew Ford as everyday making a open DH spot for us. Oh well, at least we signed C Mike Redmond. Right?

[vrs1650]

Hmmm how bout dem mets

Just hear the potential lineup that could be happening
1. Matsui
2. Reyes
3. Ramirez
4. Delgado
5. Alou
6. Piazza
7. Cameron
8. Piazza
9. Pitcher
Dude Cameron and PIazza in the bottom now thats crazy..

Yeah I suppose you could have Piazza bat twice couldn't you?

Maybe he can start hitting again the second time around.
He really needs to go to the AL so he can DH everyday.

[jlarlee]

The Renteria signing was brilliant because it frees up our top prospect, a SS, for a trade. Hanley Ramirez was going to be the future long term shortstop, but Renteria is only 28, and you can't get too much better than him. With Hanley Ramirez as the centerpiece of a trade, we should be able to get a very good starting pitcher, either this offseason or around the trade deadline.

A.J. Burnett's name is floating around... Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. It would be nice to screw the Yankees out of Randy Johnson, but how many 40 year olds can you have on the same pitching staff. Arizona doesn't want what we have anyway.

Matt Clement was a good signing but I don't see him as anything more than a #3.

I would rather have Burnett or especially Sheets over RJ anyways. I also think Clement will surprise you. He's no ace, but I think he will be a nice #2 for Boston if given the chance.
I like Clement a lot, but he's one of those pitchers with "control issues". He walks a lot of people. He'll be a very nice #3, but to compete with the Yankees, you need 2 #1's. I like Burnett a lot too, Schilling would be good for him, as would some better coaching, he hasn't had a good pitching coach or good instruction with the Marlins.

I like this rotation:
Schilling
? (future aquisition like Burnett, Sheets, etc)
Clement
Wells
Arroyo

A lot more than this (as of today):
Schilling
Clement
Wells
Arroyo
Halama or Kim

Plus Schilling will miss all of April. We need another starter right away.

hey you forgot someone. Wakefield is in the mix there somewhere too he at least ranks higher than Kim/Halama. he would rather start and i think he is good for the rotation especially back to back with someone who throws hard

[vrs1650]

Here is my take on the offseason.
AL-Angles, Yankees and Red Sox have seem to do what it takes to stay at the top or get back to the top. Should be another great year in the AL East. Hopefully both rotations can hold up.
A's have killed themselves. If Beane is as smart as everyone says, now is the time to prove it.
NL-Braves and well can't see anybody else who had a great offseason.
Dodgers and Mets both shot themselves in the foot. Dodgers got rid of a lot of talent. Picking up JD Drew and two more frontline starters could help. Mets, have you not learned with Mo Vaugh, Mike Cameron, and the list goes on and on. Pedro will be a flop.

[dafoomie]

The Renteria signing was brilliant because it frees up our top prospect, a SS, for a trade. Hanley Ramirez was going to be the future long term shortstop, but Renteria is only 28, and you can't get too much better than him. With Hanley Ramirez as the centerpiece of a trade, we should be able to get a very good starting pitcher, either this offseason or around the trade deadline.

A.J. Burnett's name is floating around... Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. It would be nice to screw the Yankees out of Randy Johnson, but how many 40 year olds can you have on the same pitching staff. Arizona doesn't want what we have anyway.

Matt Clement was a good signing but I don't see him as anything more than a #3.

I would rather have Burnett or especially Sheets over RJ anyways. I also think Clement will surprise you. He's no ace, but I think he will be a nice #2 for Boston if given the chance.
I like Clement a lot, but he's one of those pitchers with "control issues". He walks a lot of people. He'll be a very nice #3, but to compete with the Yankees, you need 2 #1's. I like Burnett a lot too, Schilling would be good for him, as would some better coaching, he hasn't had a good pitching coach or good instruction with the Marlins.

I like this rotation:
Schilling
? (future aquisition like Burnett, Sheets, etc)
Clement
Wells
Arroyo

A lot more than this (as of today):
Schilling
Clement
Wells
Arroyo
Halama or Kim

Plus Schilling will miss all of April. We need another starter right away.

hey you forgot someone. Wakefield is in the mix there somewhere too he at least ranks higher than Kim/Halama. he would rather start and i think he is good for the rotation especially back to back with someone who throws hard
Hmm, dunno how I missed Wakefield... Swap out Arroyo and put Wakefield in the top one, because Arroyo will probably be traded if we get Burnett. On the second one, put Wake in front of Arroyo.

I think its because I'm thinking W for Wells that I missed him, weird.

[jlarlee]

I dunno what is up with the A's it is like they had their own personal black friday sale or something. Of the big three they had the only one they still have is the shakiest of the 3. Although Zito being a lefty makes him more valuable than a righty with comparable skills. The Angels made the move of the offseason IMO Finley is a great CF.

[robdees]

2005 is gonna be a fun season. So far my favorite part of the winter meetings has been Baltimore telling the Cubbies they'd take Sosa off their hands.... as long as Chicago continued to pay 80% of his contract!! I also see we have a lot of Boston fans here. Have fun with my Cardinals old SS, Renteria. He left because he wanted to play for "a winner", and a "traditional team". There are few teams that can match the winning tradition of the Cards (granted Boston probably surpasses on the tradition side). I like the guy, I just wish more players could change teams gracefully.

[dafoomie]

2005 is gonna be a fun season. So far my favorite part of the winter meetings has been Baltimore telling the Cubbies they'd take Sosa off their hands.... as long as Chicago continued to pay 80% of his contract!! I also see we have a lot of Boston fans here. Have fun with my Cardinals old SS, Renteria. He left because he wanted to play for "a winner", and a "traditional team". There are few teams that can match the winning tradition of the Cards (granted Boston probably surpasses on the tradition side). I like the guy, I just wish more players could change teams gracefully.
I would put Renteria in the money grubber category with Pedro (as most atheletes are, I don't really blame them), but he turned down more money from Seattle and Detroit, signifigantly more. Plus the Cardinals offer was heavily backloaded. Not that he didn't take the money and run, but he took the most money he could from a contending team.

[peterjsparks]

robdees took me to school on page 2. Just thought I'd come on and acknowledge my miscue. I guess news travels slowly to those of us north of the border. I'm just hoping JP and the rest of the guys in Toronto get at least one quality starter before the spring starts.

[jlarlee]

So where does Beltran sign at?

[dafoomie]

Him and his agent are meeting with Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman today.

[jlarlee]

Him and his agent are meeting with Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman today.

Bernie shoul dput his home on the market he doesn't hit good enough for a DH

[alfonsosoriano]

Go Yankees.

[The Shiznit]

Here is my take on the offseason.
AL-Angles, Yankees and Red Sox have seem to do what it takes to stay at the top or get back to the top. Should be another great year in the AL East. Hopefully both rotations can hold up.
A's have killed themselves. If Beane is as smart as everyone says, now is the time to prove it.
NL-Braves and well can't see anybody else who had a great offseason.
Dodgers and Mets both shot themselves in the foot. Dodgers got rid of a lot of talent. Picking up JD Drew and two more frontline starters could help. Mets, have you not learned with Mo Vaugh, Mike Cameron, and the list goes on and on. Pedro will be a flop.

I can only hope that Beane knows what he's doing. I'm an A's fan and it's killing me to see him dismantle this team.

[jlarlee]

Here is my take on the offseason.
AL-Angles, Yankees and Red Sox have seem to do what it takes to stay at the top or get back to the top. Should be another great year in the AL East. Hopefully both rotations can hold up.
A's have killed themselves. If Beane is as smart as everyone says, now is the time to prove it.
NL-Braves and well can't see anybody else who had a great offseason.
Dodgers and Mets both shot themselves in the foot. Dodgers got rid of a lot of talent. Picking up JD Drew and two more frontline starters could help. Mets, have you not learned with Mo Vaugh, Mike Cameron, and the list goes on and on. Pedro will be a flop.

I can only hope that Beane knows what he's doing. I'm an A's fan and it's killing me to see him dismantle this team.

Angels signed cabrera they sure are making a push

[greendj27]

Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. .

Au contraire. Milwaukee is already working on re-signing him and it should be done before during spring training once they are sure his injury has healed. I am loving this new owner and he hasn't even officially taken over yet. :D

[jlarlee]

Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. .

Au contraire. Milwaukee is already working on re-signing him and it should be done before during spring training once they are sure his injury has healed. I am loving this new owner and he hasn't even officially taken over yet. :D

lets just see how that pans out.

[dafoomie]

Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. .

Au contraire. Milwaukee is already working on re-signing him and it should be done before during spring training once they are sure his injury has healed. I am loving this new owner and he hasn't even officially taken over yet. :D
Good luck with that... He can get a huge contract if he plays this year out. More than Pavano just got if his ERA is under 4 this year. A massive contract if he matches last year's numbers or comes close. His 'injury' was just surgery on a herniated disc in his back, something that was bothering him for 2 years. Nothing to worry about.

Wade Miller just got non-tendered by the Astros, he'd be a nice pickup if he's cheap. He's been hurt a lot the last 2 years though.

[greendj27]

Ben Sheets could be a possibility around the trade deadline, Milwaukee will never sign him. .

Au contraire. Milwaukee is already working on re-signing him and it should be done before during spring training once they are sure his injury has healed. I am loving this new owner and he hasn't even officially taken over yet. :D
Good luck with that... He can get a huge contract if he plays this year out. More than Pavano just got if his ERA is under 4 this year. A massive contract if he matches last year's numbers or comes close. His 'injury' was just surgery on a herniated disc in his back, something that was bothering him for 2 years. Nothing to worry about.

Wade Miller just got non-tendered by the Astros, he'd be a nice pickup if he's cheap. He's been hurt a lot the last 2 years though.

There was an article about the Brewers being willing to pay him to stay. I was surprised to read that as well. I believe I sqaw it in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. I know that the GM has also sasid that Sheets is untouchable. Granted this could all be posturing, but new ownership has got me in an optimistic mood. :D

[FriskyTanuki]

\:D/ \:D/ Woo-Hoo! The Randy Johnson Trade fell through! Thank you LA for being smart on this one! \:D/ \:D/

The Yankees said that LA had already accepted it and backed out yesterday, and will be hesitant to trade with them again because of this.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpa2lpNnFzBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=ap-johnson-megadeal&prov=ap&type=lgns

What do you think of the possible trade to send Randy to the Yankees?

Yankees get:
Randy Johnson, P, AZ
Kaz Ishii, P, LA

Dodgers get:
Javier Vazquez, P, NYY
Dioner Navarro, C, NYY
Eric Duncan, 3B, NYY
Mike Koplove, P, AZ

D-backs:
Shawn Green, OF, LA
Brad Penny, P, LA
Yhency Brazoban, P, LA
Brandon Weeden, P, LA

LA would've gotten the bad end of the deal, and I'm glad they decided not to go through with it.

[dafoomie]

Paul DiPodesta = Santa Claus

[jlarlee]

Paul DiPodesta = Santa Claus

No kidding he even had a little Christmas in July with that awful trade he made mideseason last year

[Javery]

The Yankees will still get RJ just not with the Dodgers involvement. Arizona is pushing hard for the trade now too and they have been in contact with several other teams to try and work something out. It's going to happen.

[dafoomie]

We just signed Wade Miller to a 1 year deal. 1.5 million base, 3 million in incentives.

[dafoomie]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1951927

This is a great signing. If he never pitches a game, we're only on the hook for 1.5 million. Ricky Gutierrez made more than that. And the incentives don't even pay him a ton of money.

Schilling
Miller
Clement
Wells
Arroyo
Wakefield

I wonder who the odd man out is, though it won't happen until May, since Schilling is out for at least April. Wakefield might go to the pen, only one that could get traded is Arroyo.

[jlarlee]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1951927

This is a great signing. If he never pitches a game, we're only on the hook for 1.5 million. Ricky Gutierrez made more than that. And the incentives don't even pay him a ton of money.

I'd go so far as to say that our rotation is better this year. Now the question is who is pushed out of the rotation Wakefield or Arroyo. At least now if Curt can't make the first month we will have a capable replacement for him.

[dafoomie]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1951927

This is a great signing. If he never pitches a game, we're only on the hook for 1.5 million. Ricky Gutierrez made more than that. And the incentives don't even pay him a ton of money.

I'd go so far as to say that our rotation is better this year. Now the question is who is pushed out of the rotation Wakefield or Arroyo. At least now if Curt can't make the first month we will have a capable replacement for him.
Now Schilling doesn't have to rush back, he can take his time. We replaced Pedro and Lowe with Miller, Clement, and Wells.

If Wade Miller can stay healthy, he should have as good or better of a year as Pedro does with the Mets. His ERA is usually under 3.5. With 6 starters, plus Halama and maybe Kim as spot starters, no one has to pitch hurt. Now we need some bullpen help in addition to Mantei, and we're set.

[CaseyRyback]

Varitek is coming back to the BoSox

and while I do think the Sox rotation looks good, I think they really should try to resign Lowe (do not think he was signed yet) as when it came down to the clutch, he came through (unlike Miller, Clement, and wellls have in the past)

[MorbidAngel4Life]

Percival to the Tigers. w00t.

[jlarlee]

Varitek is coming back to the BoSox

and while I do think the Sox rotation looks good, I think they really should try to resign Lowe (do not think he was signed yet) as when it came down to the clutch, he came through (unlike Miller, Clement, and wellls have in the past)

Lowe needs a change of scenery. I think he did so well in the postseason because he was miffed by being taken out of the rotation for the playoffs

[craven_fiend]

that'd be cool if the redsox went with a 6 man rotation. everyone would get plenty of rest. now that'd be sweet. i wonder how true these delgado rumors are with the sox? what would they do with him 1B is covered and Big Papi is the DH

[lionheart4life]

I think the Delgado rumors of him signing with the Red Sox are nothing. They have no where to play him, and probably will already be over the luxury tax limit like the Yankees even before taking on another huge contract. I would really like to see Delgado go to the Orioles, but they've already missed a ton of opportunities to sign pitching, which they really need since their lineup is already stacked. I'm also glad the Johnson trade didn't go though, since they would have got Ishii too who is a high-quality starter and really wouldn't have given up much. That trade would have been a disaster for the Dodgers, even worse than the one they made late last year.

[vrs1650]

\:D/ \:D/ Woo-Hoo! The Randy Johnson Trade fell through! Thank you LA for being smart on this one! \:D/ \:D/

The Yankees said that LA had already accepted it and backed out yesterday, and will be hesitant to trade with them again because of this.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpa2lpNnFzBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=ap-johnson-megadeal&prov=ap&type=lgns

What do you think of the possible trade to send Randy to the Yankees?

Yankees get:
Randy Johnson, P, AZ
Kaz Ishii, P, LA

Dodgers get:
Javier Vazquez, P, NYY
Dioner Navarro, C, NYY
Eric Duncan, 3B, NYY
Mike Koplove, P, AZ

D-backs:
Shawn Green, OF, LA
Brad Penny, P, LA
Yhency Brazoban, P, LA
Brandon Weeden, P, LA

LA would've gotten the bad end of the deal, and I'm glad they decided not to go through with it.

All I can say is THANK GOD! Now hopefully with the signing of JD Drew we can start improving our team for next year. This trade would have killed us. Now get one or two starters, Lowe and someone else. We may be in a good position to make the playoffs again.

[craven_fiend]

thats what i figured the delgado/red sox thing was, just a rumor.

vrs1650, you should edit that picture of beltre and put a big $ on it.

[lionheart4life]

Yeah Beltre is rich now no doubt, but I actually think the Mariners got a pretty good deal on him considering his age and the numbers he put up last year. I guess the fact that this was his only really big year in the 6 or 7 he's been playing scared some teams away from shelling out more for him.

[craven_fiend]

Yeah Beltre is rich now no doubt, but I actually think the Mariners got a pretty good deal on him considering his age and the numbers he put up last year. I guess the fact that this was his only really big year in the 6 or 7 he's been playing scared some teams away from shelling out more for him.


yeah, thats what i was think. 1 monster year in his career and gets a pay day. thats what boras was hoping for. he is a shrewd business man. he gets what he wants.

[dafoomie]

Varitek is coming back to the BoSox

and while I do think the Sox rotation looks good, I think they really should try to resign Lowe (do not think he was signed yet) as when it came down to the clutch, he came through (unlike Miller, Clement, and wellls have in the past)

Lowe needs a change of scenery. I think he did so well in the postseason because he was miffed by being taken out of the rotation for the playoffs
Why would we sign Lowe when we have 6 better starters now? Lowe was in the worst 5 starters in baseball statistically last year. He would have to go to the bullpen. Plus he's asking for way, way too much money. Lowe really came through for us in the ALCS and the world series, big time, but unless we need another starter and he starts asking for short money, its time to say goodbye.

Delgado is not coming to Boston. We have too many first basemen now, we're trying to trade one of Millar or Mientkiewicz. Our primary objective from here on out is to get rid of one of them, get rid of Kim, and get some bullpen help and a backup infielder. The major moves are done.

[CaseyRyback]

Varitek is coming back to the BoSox

and while I do think the Sox rotation looks good, I think they really should try to resign Lowe (do not think he was signed yet) as when it came down to the clutch, he came through (unlike Miller, Clement, and wellls have in the past)

Lowe needs a change of scenery. I think he did so well in the postseason because he was miffed by being taken out of the rotation for the playoffs
Why would we sign Lowe when we have 6 better starters now? Lowe was in the worst 5 starters in baseball statistically last year. He would have to go to the bullpen. Plus he's asking for way, way too much money. Lowe really came through for us in the ALCS and the world series, big time, but unless we need another starter and he starts asking for short money, its time to say goodbye.

Delgado is not coming to Boston. We have too many first basemen now, we're trying to trade one of Millar or Mientkiewicz. Our primary objective from here on out is to get rid of one of them, get rid of Kim, and get some bullpen help and a backup infielder. The major moves are done.

one bad season starting should not negate the time he spent as a decent closer and the superb season he had the year before last

I just do not like major changes in a rotation from year to year as it usually leads to bad things

[CaseyRyback]

also want to add that when I saw this earlier today, it kind of shook me up. Sad to see him go as he was a great manager

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1953071

[craven_fiend]

also want to add that when I saw this earlier today, it kind of shook me up. Sad to see him go as he was a great manager

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1953071

yeah, that sucks. i've seen a few baseball names in the last few weeks pass away that i had no clue who they were, but oates is someone that i knew who he was. cancer is a very scary disease and especially in the brain. baseball has truly lost a great man.

[jlarlee]

Varitek is coming back to the BoSox

and while I do think the Sox rotation looks good, I think they really should try to resign Lowe (do not think he was signed yet) as when it came down to the clutch, he came through (unlike Miller, Clement, and wellls have in the past)

Lowe needs a change of scenery. I think he did so well in the postseason because he was miffed by being taken out of the rotation for the playoffs
Why would we sign Lowe when we have 6 better starters now? Lowe was in the worst 5 starters in baseball statistically last year. He would have to go to the bullpen. Plus he's asking for way, way too much money. Lowe really came through for us in the ALCS and the world series, big time, but unless we need another starter and he starts asking for short money, its time to say goodbye.

Delgado is not coming to Boston. We have too many first basemen now, we're trying to trade one of Millar or Mientkiewicz. Our primary objective from here on out is to get rid of one of them, get rid of Kim, and get some bullpen help and a backup infielder. The major moves are done.

one bad season starting should not negate the time he spent as a decent closer and the superb season he had the year before last

I just do not like major changes in a rotation from year to year as it usually leads to bad things

One bad season? No he was the recepient of some damn good run support, his era was at 4.47 in 2003 and than to follow that up with a 5.43 he deserves nothing but the door hitting his arse on the way out. Yes he was a good closer for a while but he melted down pretty bad at the end of that stint. I really do think a change of scenery to a good defensive team will help his career

[craven_fiend]

looks like my other team is actually trying to win this coming year. the are spending money on pitching woohoo. oh heres the link:

Reds Sign Milton to 3 yr 25.5 Mil (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpcDBuM2RlBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 aA--?slug=ap-reds-milton&prov=ap&type=lgns)

hey they're local, and i like them better than the cubbies.

[jlarlee]

It seems the hot stove is starting to Peter out the only big deals to be done are for Beltran and to see where the big unit ends up

[craven_fiend]

yeah. and all of that will probably be resolved in the next 2 weeks. it'll slow down for a while, then someone from out of nowhere will sign or be traded and rekindle the stove.

plus for a semi-Reds fan, that is hot news

[jlarlee]

Looks like the yanks are back at it with the Big Unit I hope they give up a lot of prospects for him.

[goldengraham]

Wow, I guessed i missed this topic, haven't seen it before.

Well, I need to change my avatar I guess. It sucks though when you hear these mega contracts, 5 years 40-60 million for guys who have losing career records (Pavano) or coming off season ending injuries (Sexson).

All my A's can do is trade away their two best players, Seattle signs $110 million in 24 hours, our payroll for years...

[jlarlee]

Wow, I guessed i missed this topic, haven't seen it before.

Well, I need to change my avatar I guess. It sucks though when you hear these mega contracts, 5 years 40-60 million for guys who have losing career records (Pavano) or coming off season ending injuries (Sexson).

All my A's can do is trade away their two best players, Seattle signs $110 million in 24 hours, our payroll for years...

At least they spent some money on some iffy players. beware the guy who has a career year when he's playing for a new contract. And Sexson has never impressed me. It's the Angels I would be worried about they have spent their money wisely

[goldengraham]

Oh yeah, I already figure the Angels will probably win the division by 10+ games this year, they are a monster

Anderson, Guerrero, Finley in the outfield, three headed monster.

[CaseyRyback]

Oh yeah, I already figure the Angels will probably win the division by 10+ games this year, they are a monster

Anderson, Guerrero, Finley in the outfield, three headed monster.

Finley is awesome. My uncle goes hunting with his dad. I got some stuff from him, back when he played for the astros

[jlarlee]

Oh yeah, I already figure the Angels will probably win the division by 10+ games this year, they are a monster

Anderson, Guerrero, Finley in the outfield, three headed monster.

Finley is awesome. My uncle goes hunting with his dad. I got some stuff from him, back when he played for the astros

IMO Finley is the best pickup of the season. He just adds a lot to a team and it seemed him signing there got very little publicity

[dafoomie]

If the A's are so strapped for cash, why would they go out and trade for Jason Kendall, who has one of the worst contracts in baseball? He makes 10, 11, and 13 million in each of the next 3 years. They couldn't have spent that money a little more wisely? Why would they even pick him up, if they're rebuilding?

Thank god Billy Beane turned down the Redsox job offer, first thing he would have done is trade Varitek, and pick up Mark Johnson (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=6113) to replace him. Oakland actually did pick him up in 03. Wow.

I find Billy Beane's offseason this year to be mindboggling. I thought his mantra was pitching wins?

[CaseyRyback]

If the A's are so strapped for cash, why would they go out and trade for Jason Kendall, who has one of the worst contracts in baseball? He makes 10, 11, and 13 million in each of the next 3 years. They couldn't have spent that money a little more wisely? Why would they even pick him up, if they're rebuilding?

Thank god Billy Beane turned down the Redsox job offer, first thing he would have done is trade Varitek, and pick up Mark Johnson (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=6113) to replace him. Oakland actually did pick him up in 03. Wow.

I find Billy Beane's offseason this year to be mindboggling. I thought his mantra was pitching wins?

he thinks he has a decent rotation in place. Maybe they will not be good next year, but he is banking on 2006 being a good year.

They had to do something, they have not got out of the first round yet (though they were robbed by fuckin Derek Jeter that one year)

[jlarlee]

If the A's are so strapped for cash, why would they go out and trade for Jason Kendall, who has one of the worst contracts in baseball? He makes 10, 11, and 13 million in each of the next 3 years. They couldn't have spent that money a little more wisely? Why would they even pick him up, if they're rebuilding?

Thank god Billy Beane turned down the Redsox job offer, first thing he would have done is trade Varitek, and pick up Mark Johnson (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=6113) to replace him. Oakland actually did pick him up in 03. Wow.

I find Billy Beane's offseason this year to be mindboggling. I thought his mantra was pitching wins?

he thinks he has a decent rotation in place. Maybe they will not be good next year, but he is banking on 2006 being a good year.

They had to do something, they have not got out of the first round yet (though they were robbed by shaq-fuin Derek Jeter that one year)

I am definetly of the mindset that Beane is a bit overrated. It defiently looks like the A's are already playing for 2006. I see the Yanks are ready to mortgage their future to get Johnson by offering the D'Backs their choice of prospects

[greendj27]

According to ESPN.com, Randy Johnson said the deal is finished for him to go to the Yanks.

[goldengraham]

The A's deal for Kendall was a pretty even trade monetary wise.

Rhodes and Redman's next two years come sto about even with Kendall's, especially with the Pirates paying a couple mil towards his 06 salary.

People say Beane is overrated but he seems to get it done almost every year, I'm not gonna doubt him, but this year doesnt have me feeling too great with Anaheim's moves (Seattle's pitching is still awful, Sexson (overrated) and Beltre (one good season) can't change that)

[CaseyRyback]

The A's deal for Kendall was a pretty even trade monetary wise.

Rhodes and Redman's next two years come sto about even with Kendall's, especially with the Pirates paying a couple mil towards his 06 salary.

People say Beane is overrated but he seems to get it done almost every year, I'm not gonna doubt him, but this year doesnt have me feeling too great with Anaheim's moves (Seattle's pitching is still awful, Sexson (overrated) and Beltre (one good season) can't change that)

you seem to forget Texas though. Without some key injuries late in the season, they could have made the postseason.

also I do agree with you. With the amount of times he has been to the postseason, and the payroll he has, he has done a great job. That team needed a shake-up as it was not getting past the first round, and even if they struggle now, they could be amazing in the future.

[jlarlee]

The A's deal for Kendall was a pretty even trade monetary wise.

Rhodes and Redman's next two years come sto about even with Kendall's, especially with the Pirates paying a couple mil towards his 06 salary.

People say Beane is overrated but he seems to get it done almost every year, I'm not gonna doubt him, but this year doesnt have me feeling too great with Anaheim's moves (Seattle's pitching is still awful, Sexson (overrated) and Beltre (one good season) can't change that)

you seem to forget Texas though. Without some key injuries late in the season, they could have made the postseason.

also I do agree with you. With the amount of times he has been to the postseason, and the payroll he has, he has done a great job. That team needed a shake-up as it was not getting past the first round, and even if they struggle now, they could be amazing in the future.

Texas needs more arms which has been the case the 20 years I have watched baseball. Getting rid of AROD was masterful mainly because of getting out of that contract

[CaseyRyback]

The A's deal for Kendall was a pretty even trade monetary wise.

Rhodes and Redman's next two years come sto about even with Kendall's, especially with the Pirates paying a couple mil towards his 06 salary.

People say Beane is overrated but he seems to get it done almost every year, I'm not gonna doubt him, but this year doesnt have me feeling too great with Anaheim's moves (Seattle's pitching is still awful, Sexson (overrated) and Beltre (one good season) can't change that)

you seem to forget Texas though. Without some key injuries late in the season, they could have made the postseason.

also I do agree with you. With the amount of times he has been to the postseason, and the payroll he has, he has done a great job. That team needed a shake-up as it was not getting past the first round, and even if they struggle now, they could be amazing in the future.

Texas needs more arms which has been the case the 20 years I have watched baseball. Getting rid of AROD was masterful mainly because of getting out of that contract

they have some good young pitching. They lost like 3 of their starters last year due to injury though.

[dafoomie]

The A's deal for Kendall was a pretty even trade monetary wise.

Rhodes and Redman's next two years come sto about even with Kendall's, especially with the Pirates paying a couple mil towards his 06 salary.

People say Beane is overrated but he seems to get it done almost every year, I'm not gonna doubt him, but this year doesnt have me feeling too great with Anaheim's moves (Seattle's pitching is still awful, Sexson (overrated) and Beltre (one good season) can't change that)
Its not even at all. Rhodes and Redman make 15 million combined over the next two years, about 3+ million a year each. Kendall makes $34 million over the next 3 years, 11+ per year. In 2007, the Pirates are paying 5 million to the A's, but the A's are paying them 1 million a year for the next 2 years. He did get rid of some bad contracts (that he himself signed those players to), but Kendall is one of the most overpaid players in baseball.

[CaseyRyback]

just saw on ESPN bottom ticker, Tino is returning to the Bronx.

I guess Giambi is going to be relagated to DH (if he even plays next year)

[jlarlee]

just saw on ESPN bottom ticker, Tino is returning to the Bronx.

I guess Giambi is going to be relagated to DH (if he even plays next year)

Without his special "stuff" Giambi's a scrub just like his brother

[craven_fiend]

just saw on ESPN bottom ticker, Tino is returning to the Bronx.

I guess Giambi is going to be relagated to DH (if he even plays next year)

Without his special "stuff" Giambi's a scrub just like his brother

the yankees can rot in hell for all i care. i despise the yankees with a passion and it looks like i'll have even more reason to despise them in a few days.

[jlarlee]

I really see the yanks imploding this year

[Javery]

I really see the yanks imploding this year

They just won't. They will at least make the playoffs - it's not like they patched together an entire team that may or may not work. They have proven stars that have been there before.

Also, since Tino is coming back, I see Giambi playing the bench once Bernie moves to DH and Beltran to center...

[FriskyTanuki]

Damnit! Why'd Randy have to sell his soul to the Yankees?! God Damn Youse All to Hell!!!!!

[jlarlee]

I really see the yanks imploding this year

They just won't. They will at least make the playoffs - it's not like they patched together an entire team that may or may not work. They have proven stars that have been there before.

Also, since Tino is coming back, I see Giambi playing the bench once Bernie moves to DH and Beltran to center...

The mistake they are making is they are getting old. The end is nigh for them I believe if not this year it will be the next

[jlarlee]

While I hate to see the yanks get johnson I do like that they had to five up so much to score him. Arizona is sure going to have a potent offense next year

[jlarlee]

Boggs and Sandberg to the hall. Ryne is my favorite non-red sox player of all time.

[dafoomie]

Looks like Beltran is about to sign with the Mets.

[ryanbph]

I highly doubt that beltran is going to new york yanks...he is highly overratted...a .260is hitter last year..jd drew had better numbers and is the same age...if the mets don't highly overpay him, I wouldn't be suprised if he stayed in houston

[Javery]

Looks like Beltran is about to sign with the Mets.

This would be great news as the Mets are my favorite team. They are going to have a pretty good team next year if this happens. I don't think they will make the playoffs but who knows... what they really need is to get a new stadium - Shea is where hitters go to die. It will help Pedro though...

Reyes (SS)
Matsui (2B)
Beltran (CF)
Piazza (C)
Cameron (LF)
Floyd (RF)
Wright (3B)

They just need a 1B - I don't think the Big Cat is going to cut it...

Their rotation is pretty solid too: Martinez, Glavine, Trachsel, Bensen and Zambrano... not bad...

[integralsmatic]

I hate Zambrano..I will always stress this as a met fan and that Any man with the last name Duquette should be banned from baseball...How in the hell would you trade the best pitching prospect in the AAA for Oft Injured Zambrano...No good man..

Yeah the mets are looking decent but there are still so many questions with health...floyd,Piazza,Reyes,and matsui allhave health issues.....I wish they did the reyes for Soriano deal......Soriano just had a bad beat with the injury this year but he be better than reyes..

Well they might get Delgado...IF they get Delgado than it will set...

[FriskyTanuki]

Looks like Beltran is about to sign with the Mets.

This would be great news as the Mets are my favorite team. They are going to have a pretty good team next year if this happens. I don't think they will make the playoffs but who knows... what they really need is to get a new stadium - Shea is where hitters go to die. It will help Pedro though...

Reyes (SS)
Matsui (2B)
Beltran (CF)
Piazza (C)
Cameron (LF)
Floyd (RF)
Wright (3B)

They just need a 1B - I don't think the Big Cat is going to cut it...

Their rotation is pretty solid too: Martinez, Glavine, Trachsel, Bensen and Zambrano... not bad...

How about Mo Vaughn? :wink:

[MorbidAngel4Life]

Looks like Beltran is about to sign with the Mets.

He might sign with the Tigers.

[integralsmatic]

Dam Hell just let the damn Nationals get it on the beltran sweepstakes.

[WeaponX2099]

I heard the Cubs might have a shot.

[MorbidAngel4Life]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

[WinnieThePujols]

Heard the Tigers dropped out of the Beltran running.

Cubs have a shot...but then again, they really don't. If they had traded Sammy, I would've expected Beltran to go to the Cubs.

Astros aren't going to be able to muster up enough cash. They'll get outbid by one of the New York teams.

The Yankees may finally be strapped for cash.

The Mets will be the winner in the Carlos Beltran sweepstakes, although they'll grossly overpay a guy who's a really good player, just not an elite one.

[CaseyRyback]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

[jlarlee]

Wow a decently busy weekend. 7 years at 119 mil may be a bit steep for beltran, also the dodgers will regret paying lowe 36 mil for 4 years

[dafoomie]

Lowe got more than Clement and Miller combined. Not a smart signing.

Beltran got a rediculous contract... No coincidence that these are both Scott Bora$'s players.

[jlarlee]

Wow now the Mets are gonna throw money at Delgado. If this team doesn't win the division it is going to be a disaster on scale with the titantic

[FriskyTanuki]

Nice, Cleveland got Millwood. Definitely a good addition to a team with many young pitching talents that really have no veterans to learn from.

[mattatskul]

Dodgers look like they could be in some trouble... I know they resigned Perez and look like they are going to sign Lowe, but they've already lost Beltre and Shawn Green...who do they have that can even hit anymore.

[jlarlee]

Dodgers look like they could be in some trouble... I know they resigned Perez and look like they are going to sign Lowe, but they've already lost Beltre and Shawn Green...who do they have that can even hit anymore.

As a guy familar with Lowe after watching him for many years signing Lowe should not be counted as a good thing

[MorbidAngel4Life]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

Edit: He is still on the team:

Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
15 Brandon Inge R/R 5-11 195 05/19/77
7 Ivan Rodriguez R/R 5-9 220 11/30/71
30 Chris Shelton R/R 6-0 220 06/26/80
** Vance Wilson R/R 5-11 190 03/17/73

[FriskyTanuki]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

[jlarlee]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Casey is a Rangers fan I believe he is referring to when they let him go to the marlins

[MorbidAngel4Life]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Yup. Found it. I think he was talking about the Marlins. My bad.

[FriskyTanuki]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Yup. Found it. I think he was talking about the Marlins. My bad.

Ahh, I actually liked him on the Marlins since I was somewhat of a fan of them.

[MorbidAngel4Life]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Yup. Found it. I think he was talking about the Marlins. My bad.

Ahh, I actually liked him on the Marlins since I was somewhat of a fan of them.

Well, he helped us recover from our HORRIBLE season.

And on a side note, The Tigers are looking to sign Maglio Ordonez. I hope it goes through. Percival and Ordonez in one year? This could help out the Tigers immensely.

[FriskyTanuki]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Yup. Found it. I think he was talking about the Marlins. My bad.

Ahh, I actually liked him on the Marlins since I was somewhat of a fan of them.

Well, he helped us recover from our HORRIBLE season.

And on a side note, The Tigers are looking to sign Maglio Ordonez. I hope it goes through. Percival and Ordonez in one year? This could help out the Tigers immensely.

That could happen, but this seems to be the year to get paid. A lot of players are getting over-paid, though that could be attributed to Boras and the agents that are demanding these prices though their client may not be worth it or able to live up to it.

[Mr.Answer]

Anyone have a number on projected payroll for the Mets now with the Beltran signing? I read on one of the sports pages that they are still going to go hard after Beltran and somesort of pitching (which they really need). It is amazaing to see the yankees reaching a limit in their spending!

[MorbidAngel4Life]

I wonder, if the Tigers got him, would it turn into another Juan-Gon?

you make fun of that trade, and I literally broke down in tears when they dealt him. Same thing when they let Pudge go

When did the Tigers let Pudge go?

As far as I know, they haven't.

Yup. Found it. I think he was talking about the Marlins. My bad.

Ahh, I actually liked him on the Marlins since I was somewhat of a fan of them.

Well, he helped us recover from our HORRIBLE season.

And on a side note, The Tigers are looking to sign Maglio Ordonez. I hope it goes through. Percival and Ordonez in one year? This could help out the Tigers immensely.

That could happen, but this seems to be the year to get paid. A lot of players are getting over-paid, though that could be attributed to Boras and the agents that are demanding these prices though their client may not be worth it or able to live up to it.

Yeah. *cough*Beltran*cough*

[Javery]

Yeah METS!!!! They are looking better and better.... now all they have to do is get Delgado and their lineup will be set. I think the pitching staff needs a little work though - especially at middle relief and closer... The 2005 Mets could actually finish over .500!!!!!

[Mr.Answer]

Yeah METS!!!! They are looking better and better.... now all they have to do is get Delgado and their lineup will be set. I think the pitching staff needs a little work though - especially at middle relief and closer... The 2005 Mets could actually finish over .500!!!!!

what is their pitching rotation (aside from Pedro?)

[dafoomie]

Yeah METS!!!! They are looking better and better.... now all they have to do is get Delgado and their lineup will be set. I think the pitching staff needs a little work though - especially at middle relief and closer... The 2005 Mets could actually finish over .500!!!!!
"They're built to win the back pages of newspapers in January, but come September they're trying to figure out what to do next year." --Peter Gammons

[jlarlee]

I knew Johnson would chafe under the NY limelight but I had no idea would happen so quickly

[craven_fiend]

I knew Johnson would chafe under the NY limelight but I had no idea would happen so quickly


yeah on the way to a physical even.

oh well, the yankees implosions will begin in oh about 2 1/2 months, when the host the defending World Series Champs.

[Javery]

what is their pitching rotation (aside from Pedro?)

Pedro
Glavine
Bensen
Trachsel
Zambrano

"They're built to win the back pages of newspapers in January, but come September they're trying to figure out what to do next year." --Peter Gammons

This is true of all of the "big" teams that don't win the World Series or make the playoffs. All I was saying is that it is finally nice to see the Mets organization really trying to put together a winning team. I can't remember the last time the Mets got the #1 most wanted free agent in the off season...

[doubledown]

Well, it appears that Beltran is going to try and court Delgado for the Mets. Wow, 1986 all over again ;)

[Mike23]

If Delgado wasn't so bloody money hungry, he could've stuck with an organization on the rise, the Blue Jays. Now, he's either going to Texas or the Mets, two places where he's gonna feel immense pressure to succeed on teams that are perennial losers.

[dafoomie]

http://bostondirtdogs.boston.com/RJront011105.JPG
What a prick. Glad we got the good one.

"I don't care who you are. Don't get in my face and don't talk back to me, all right?"

"You'll see what I'm like," Johnson said at the height of the brouhaha.

Moments later, Everett retorted, "Welcome to New York."

"I've had them angry, but never to that extent where the athlete grabbed the camera," Everett told The Post. "And that includes Barry Bonds.

"I've (ticked) Barry Bonds off, but he hasn't done anything like that."

[Mr.Answer]

I'm definitly not a Yankee apologist nor one for Randy Johnson, howeve is should be noted that the first thing he did in the press conference today was apologize for his 'foolish act'.

"I'd first like to once again reiterate: The situation yesterday, it was unprofessional," Johnson said, "and obviously I feel very foolish today at such a great moment of my career that I would have to stand before you and apologize for my actions. Hopefully it's water under the bridge."

Johnson added: "Yesterday, my actions were uncalled for. I'm sorry. I hope I can move on and can get another chance to prove that I'm worth coming here."

[Javery]

http://bostondirtdogs.boston.com/RJront011105.JPG
What a prick. Glad we got the good one.

"I don't care who you are. Don't get in my face and don't talk back to me, all right?"

"You'll see what I'm like," Johnson said at the height of the brouhaha.

Moments later, Everett retorted, "Welcome to New York."

"I've had them angry, but never to that extent where the athlete grabbed the camera," Everett told The Post. "And that includes Barry Bonds.

"I've (ticked) Barry Bonds off, but he hasn't done anything like that."

Why does someone's personality matter? If RJ is going to strike out 300 people and win 20 games he could be the biggest asshole in the world - it doesn't mean a Yankee fan shouldn't root for him...

[jlarlee]

http://bostondirtdogs.boston.com/RJront011105.JPG
What a prick. Glad we got the good one.

"I don't care who you are. Don't get in my face and don't talk back to me, all right?"

"You'll see what I'm like," Johnson said at the height of the brouhaha.

Moments later, Everett retorted, "Welcome to New York."

"I've had them angry, but never to that extent where the athlete grabbed the camera," Everett told The Post. "And that includes Barry Bonds.

"I've (ticked) Barry Bonds off, but he hasn't done anything like that."

Why does someone's personality matter? If RJ is going to strike out 300 people and win 20 games he could be the biggest asshole in the world - it doesn't mean a Yankee fan shouldn't root for him...

Team chemistry

[CaseyRyback]

that guy was right on top of him though. I know I would not want someone sticking a camera in my face so close where I could actually reach out and touch the camer.

[jlarlee]

that guy was right on top of him though. I know I would not want someone sticking a camera in my face so close where I could actually reach out and touch the camer.

true but as a celebrity for so long it should be old hat for him by now

[coolieman2001]

With the mets about to aquire Delgado, where do you think they will place in the NL East ? I think they have a better team on paper but they need to just stay healthy. Reyes needs to start playin smart baseball and stop tryin to impress people with dazzling moves on the field and on the bases. It seems whenever he pushes himself to the limit he gets hurt. :? I tihink Piazza will have a good year if he can play Catcher all season. Trying to play first base last year really hurt him. I also think Glavine will have more wins this season will the new additions helping with the run support. I dont think he will get to 300 wins though. I will take him 3 more years to get to that landmark.There Middle relief is pretty bad, its the onnly thing thast going to keep them from taking the division. I think overall the mets will take 2nd place and win the wild card. What do you guys think ?

[CaseyRyback]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

[craven_fiend]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

you forgot the most important reason as to why the Cubs will win the wild card......sosa will be gone. no more distractions from him.

not that it matters, they'll get knocked out by the nl east champs in the first round =\

although i'd really love to see a Red Sox/Cubs series. that'd be nice.

[ryanbph]

they have had a good team on paper before and went no where...won't know untill they play...I think maybe 2nd, but probably 3rd

[CaseyRyback]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

you forgot the most important reason as to why the Cubs will win the wild card......sosa will be gone. no more distractions from him.

not that it matters, they'll get knocked out by the nl east champs in the first round =\

although i'd really love to see a Red Sox/Cubs series. that'd be nice.

if they would have been healthy all year long, there really would have been no problems and that team would have gone to the World Series. The only teams that really got stronger were also the ones that got weaker. The Giants got another hitter, the Marlins got healthy , and the Cards pretty much stayed in tact.

Hopefully Sammy finds his swing and Nomar and the pitching staff stay healthy. If that happens, there really is nothing to stop them aside from the Yankees and the Red Sox.

[FriskyTanuki]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpa2lpNnFzBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=ap-astros-clemens&prov=ap&type=lgns

Roger Clemens looks like he wants to get the money he deserves since he played for so cheap last year. At least the $18 million is better than the $22 million he asked for in arbitration, which I think was a ploy so he could get higher than the $13.5 million Houston offered him.

[Pure Apathy]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

Wildcard would be nice for the Cubs, but I doubt they won't even make it to that. I'm pissed because they let Alou go and haven't signed anyone good *cough* like magglio *cough* to replace him.

[Grave_Addiction]

If Delgado wasn't so bloody money hungry, he could've stuck with an organization on the rise, the Blue Jays. Now, he's either going to Texas or the Mets, two places where he's gonna feel immense pressure to succeed on teams that are perennial losers.

Tom Grieve and several other Texas Rangers visited my base yesterday. I got the chance to talk to Mr. Grieve for a few minutes, and I asked him what he thought of our chances of signing Delgado.

He said since the boss (Tom Hicks, the Rangers owner) is down in Puerto Rico, he knows he's serious about signing him.

Then I said that I heard the biggest hurdle is money right now. Texas is reportedly only wanting to offer around $10-$11 million while Delgado wants around $14-$15 million.

He said not to worry because Hicks will bump up his offer and will give Carlos what he's wanting.

He said he doesn't know if we'll sign him for sure yet, but from how he was talking, money won't be a factor anymore.

For those who don't know who Mr. Grieve is, he was a good Texas outfielder and he's now the Ranger's tv announcer. He's also very respected in the Rangers' organization and in the media, so anything he says is pretty much good as gold.

Here's to hoping we sign Carlos!

[adamada]

$18.5 million is WAY too much for Clemens. He's good, but not $18.5 million good.

[FriskyTanuki]

$18.5 million is WAY too much for Clemens. He's good, but not $18.5 million good.

Yeah, same here, but I kind of think it's sort of a repayment for last season, too. Since he played a lot more than just the home games the he thought he'd pitch, he was a big bargain for the $5 million.

[Pure Apathy]

$18.5 million is WAY too much for Clemens. He's good, but not $18.5 million good.

I agree

[Mr.Answer]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpa2lpNnFzBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=ap-astros-clemens&prov=ap&type=lgns

Roger Clemens looks like he wants to get the money he deserves since he played for so cheap last year. At least the $18 million is better than the $22 million he asked for in arbitration, which I think was a ploy so he could get higher than the $13.5 million Houston offered him.

Do you really think CLemens deserves 18 million for a one year contract? I will grant that he was undervalued last year, but if you just average the 2 years at what 11.5 million that is still, in my mind, too much for that old of a pitcher (and really anyone that only plays every 5 days or so.) I don't fault clemens for shooting for the moon, but I think Houston will be regretting this move. Of course if they let him retire and losing Beltran maybe Houston HAD to do this for the sake of PR.

I think this year will be like so many in the NL Central, Cards-stros-Cubbies-and this year the Reds will all be really close. (so close that the wild card will be from another division)

[FriskyTanuki]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpa2lpNnFzBF9TAzk1ODYxNzc3BHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=ap-astros-clemens&prov=ap&type=lgns

Roger Clemens looks like he wants to get the money he deserves since he played for so cheap last year. At least the $18 million is better than the $22 million he asked for in arbitration, which I think was a ploy so he could get higher than the $13.5 million Houston offered him.

Do you really think CLemens deserves 18 million for a one year contract? I will grant that he was undervalued last year, but if you just average the 2 years at what 11.5 million that is still, in my mind, too much for that old of a pitcher (and really anyone that only plays every 5 days or so.) I don't fault clemens for shooting for the moon, but I think Houston will be regretting this move. Of course if they let him retire and losing Beltran maybe Houston HAD to do this for the sake of PR.

I think this year will be like so many in the NL Central, Cards-stros-Cubbies-and this year the Reds will all be really close. (so close that the wild card will be from another division)

Though he is old, he won a Cy Young last year, though I think Randy deserved it more. He showed the Astros how much of a bargain he was, and he's rightfully asked for a big raise, though I think it's a little too much. It's the offseason to get overpaid, as has been shown many times this season. The Astros offer was more appropriate for his value, but of course, Roger wasn't happy with that and made the $22 million arbitration offer and got a deal between the two. I'll be eager to see how he lives up to the contract, and with the crowded Central Division, it'll be tough to get back to the playoffs when losing a few of their big pieces from last season.

[Mr.Answer]

Boy the Astros really needed to sign him, I didn't realize that they have been having such a poor winter.

Jeff kent---signed with LA
Beltran--to NY
Berkman--out with knee injury
Pettitee--will he return to former self.


from cnnsi.com

But momentum built after he returned earlier this month from a Hawaiian vacation, and he asked for $22 million salary -- matching his uniform number


Astros must be glad they didn't give him number 75 or98!!

[CaseyRyback]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

Wildcard would be nice for the Cubs, but I doubt they won't even make it to that. I'm pissed because they let Alou go and haven't signed anyone good *cough* like magglio *cough* to replace him.

Even without Ordonez, they have a solid club. Sosa, Ramirez, and Nomar are all solid hitters (he had a bad year in 1997 when it was a contract year and showed himself worthy, so I think he will bounce back), along with Walker and Lee. They also have a healthy rotation going into the season, which should be a big plus, considering what happened last year (I know they faded, but with a bigger lead, they could have walked into the playoffs at least).

on the Rangers front, they need to go out and sign pitching. They always go after another bat, and for some reason never go after pitching. When they do go after pitching they trade for the sorriest pitcher in the league (looks at Detriot trade), they over pay for someone who would be a mid-rotation guy and claim him to be no.1 (Park) or they give away their future for someone who cannot catch a ball in the outfield (this one hurts the most)

And Roger Clemens is worth 18 million. They prety much depended solely upon him and Beltran in the playoffs, and they let Miller go (think it was him, one of those no name Astros pitchers who always wins 15 games a year). They need someone to anchor that staff, and their staff has a chance to keep them in playoff contention. Hopefully they will pick up some people on defense if they plan to contend, as they never seem to have a shortage of run production

EDIT: It was miller that signed with the Sox, not Oswalt

[Grave_Addiction]

on the Rangers front, they need to go out and sign pitching. They always go after another bat, and for some reason never go after pitching. When they do go after pitching they trade for the sorriest pitcher in the league (looks at Detriot trade), they over pay for someone who would be a mid-rotation guy and claim him to be no.1 (Park) or they give away their future for someone who cannot catch a ball in the outfield (this one hurts the most)

That's true, but most of the pitchers weren't very good this offseason. Teams were throwing out huge amounts of money for mediocre pitchers. It was just crazy.

That's another Grieve said. He agreed with me about the whole pitcher thing. he just said there weren't any good pitchers to go after. If you find yourself in that situation and don't want to overpay, you have to go with batters, I guess.

[Mr.Answer]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

Wildcard would be nice for the Cubs, but I doubt they won't even make it to that. I'm pissed because they let Alou go and haven't signed anyone good *cough* like magglio *cough* to replace him.

Even without Ordonez, they have a solid club. Sosa, Ramirez, and Nomar are all solid hitters (he had a bad year in 1997 when it was a contract year and showed himself worthy, so I think he will bounce back), along with Walker and Lee. They also have a healthy rotation going into the season, which should be a big plus, considering what happened last year (I know they faded, but with a bigger lead, they could have walked into the playoffs at least).

on the Rangers front, they need to go out and sign pitching. They always go after another bat, and for some reason never go after pitching. When they do go after pitching they trade for the sorriest pitcher in the league (looks at Detriot trade), they over pay for someone who would be a mid-rotation guy and claim him to be no.1 (Park) or they give away their future for someone who cannot catch a ball in the outfield (this one hurts the most)

And Roger Clemens is worth 18 million. They prety much depended solely upon him and Beltran in the playoffs, and they let Miller go (think it was him, one of those no name Astros pitchers who always wins 15 games a year). They need someone to anchor that staff, and their staff has a chance to keep them in playoff contention. Hopefully they will pick up some people on defense if they plan to contend, as they never seem to have a shortage of run production

EDIT: It was miller that signed with the Sox, not Oswalt

I don't think their pitching staff will be able to keep them in contetion as their 1-8 slots are much weaker than the Cards and Cubs and almost the Reds (including the reds maybe a push, but aside from Bags I'm not to thrilled about the stroes batting lineup) conversely I think the Cards will do pretty well again with their lineup, although losing renteria is a blow but that they will have the same problems come playoff time--they don't have the pitching to win it all. That is the beauty of baseball though eh? SO many games to play, so many variables, not too long for opening day! :)

[integralsmatic]

The cards will do well because of Mark Mulder...So they lose Renteria...They have guys like Bo Hart to fill temporary roles....They wont miss his production anyway just his fielding was phenomenol....

18.5 for clemens...yeah way too much but again what is left? Cant afford Delgado or any other big name...So i think over paying could be a good thing after the terrible after math that ensued...

I still hope Delgado Signs up with the mets..i just hope they add that extra year he is looking for or else its Magglio Ordonez and or Eric Byrnes.

[CaseyRyback]

The Cubs are going to get the Wild Card this year with everyone healthy, and the Marlins are going to win the East (though I never count the Braves out as they continue to win no matter what their line-up is)

The Mets will probably finish third, though if the Phillies put something together, they could finish even lower

these are just my opinions. I just think the fact that the Cubs will have everyone back from injury, and the Marlins will have all their pitchers back and healthy that they are the two gunning for the wild card/ division in the Central and East

Wildcard would be nice for the Cubs, but I doubt they won't even make it to that. I'm pissed because they let Alou go and haven't signed anyone good *cough* like magglio *cough* to replace him.

Even without Ordonez, they have a solid club. Sosa, Ramirez, and Nomar are all solid hitters (he had a bad year in 1997 when it was a contract year and showed himself worthy, so I think he will bounce back), along with Walker and Lee. They also have a healthy rotation going into the season, which should be a big plus, considering what happened last year (I know they faded, but with a bigger lead, they could have walked into the playoffs at least).

on the Rangers front, they need to go out and sign pitching. They always go after another bat, and for some reason never go after pitching. When they do go after pitching they trade for the sorriest pitcher in the league (looks at Detriot trade), they over pay for someone who would be a mid-rotation guy and claim him to be no.1 (Park) or they give away their future for someone who cannot catch a ball in the outfield (this one hurts the most)

And Roger Clemens is worth 18 million. They prety much depended solely upon him and Beltran in the playoffs, and they let Miller go (think it was him, one of those no name Astros pitchers who always wins 15 games a year). They need someone to anchor that staff, and their staff has a chance to keep them in playoff contention. Hopefully they will pick up some people on defense if they plan to contend, as they never seem to have a shortage of run production

EDIT: It was miller that signed with the Sox, not Oswalt

I don't think their pitching staff will be able to keep them in contetion as their 1-8 slots are much weaker than the Cards and Cubs and almost the Reds (including the reds maybe a push, but aside from Bags I'm not to thrilled about the stroes batting lineup) conversely I think the Cards will do pretty well again with their lineup, although losing renteria is a blow but that they will have the same problems come playoff time--they don't have the pitching to win it all. That is the beauty of baseball though eh? SO many games to play, so many variables, not too long for opening day! :)

They play 81 games at Minute Maid park, no matter who is in the line-up, they should score enough runs.

and on what Grave said, I understand what you are saying, but Derek Lowe would have been a good pick-up even at 9 million (the Rangers had a payroll that was well below normal , close to 60 or 70 million). Mainly because he could close, as well as be a starter. Basically he could have been a solid 1-2 punch with Kenny Rogers. Miller would have also been a solid pick-up on the cheap as well. Most of the other pitchers that were free agents stunk (except for Pavano). Boston will rue the day it brought in Matt Clement for the amount it paid him (watched enough Cubs games to know that there was a reason Hendry did not keep him)

[GuilewasNK]

The Rocket, Curt Schilling and Randy Johnson are the only 3 pitchers in the game that I would even THINK of giving 18 million to.

[Grave_Addiction]

and on what Grave said, I understand what you are saying, but Derek Lowe would have been a good pick-up even at 9 million (the Rangers had a payroll that was well below normal , close to 60 or 70 million). Mainly because he could close, as well as be a starter. Basically he could have been a solid 1-2 punch with Kenny Rogers. Miller would have also been a solid pick-up on the cheap as well. Most of the other pitchers that were free agents stunk (except for Pavano). Boston will rue the day it brought in Matt Clement for the amount it paid him (watched enough Cubs games to know that there was a reason Hendry did not keep him)

Actually, Lowe is probably the only pitcher I would have liked to see the Rangers add. He probably wouldn't have had an opportunity to close much because Coco Cordero is a beast of a closer, but I'm sure we could have used his arm in the rotation.

What Buck Showalter is trying to do is bring our young guys from the farm and get them into the rotation. We have some pretty good arms in the minors, and I'm excited to see what they can do.

We have to realize most pitchers don't want to come to Texas because it's too batter friendly. Because of that, we need to rely on our farm system to generate some solid starters for that.

We've had a long gap of bad minor-league talent because in the mid to late 90's, Doug Melvin and Tom Hicks traded it all away for expensive veterans when they were trying to beat the Yankees. We all know how that turned out, and it wasn't pretty.

[Mr.Answer]

I'm glad to not see Texas go and just spend money on pitching.. seems they learned there lesson and have gone the Minnesota Twins mode. (lets win, lets be smart, lets have fun)

[CaseyRyback]

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/3342850

A-Rod needs to stop running his mouth. Your team was up 3-0 and you blew it

[GuilewasNK]

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/3342850

A-Rod needs to stop running his mouth. Your team was up 3-0 and you blew it

Man, you ain't kidding. I wouldn't be surprised if karma bites him in the ass and he never wins a championship.

[coolieman2001]

Mets might not get Delgado after all. It looks like the Rangers might have pulled the trigger with that 4th year.

[coolieman2001]

Nevermind ... The Mets might actually get him. I hope they get rid of Floyd, hes just dead weight now.

[jlarlee]

and on what Grave said, I understand what you are saying, but Derek Lowe would have been a good pick-up even at 9 million (the Rangers had a payroll that was well below normal , close to 60 or 70 million). Mainly because he could close, as well as be a starter. Basically he could have been a solid 1-2 punch with Kenny Rogers. Miller would have also been a solid pick-up on the cheap as well. Most of the other pitchers that were free agents stunk (except for Pavano). Boston will rue the day it brought in Matt Clement for the amount it paid him (watched enough Cubs games to know that there was a reason Hendry did not keep him)

Actually, Lowe is probably the only pitcher I would have liked to see the Rangers add. He probably wouldn't have had an opportunity to close much because Coco Cordero is a beast of a closer, but I'm sure we could have used his arm in the rotation.

What Buck Showalter is trying to do is bring our young guys from the farm and get them into the rotation. We have some pretty good arms in the minors, and I'm excited to see what they can do.

We have to realize most pitchers don't want to come to Texas because it's too batter friendly. Because of that, we need to rely on our farm system to generate some solid starters for that.

We've had a long gap of bad minor-league talent because in the mid to late 90's, Doug Melvin and Tom Hicks traded it all away for expensive veterans when they were trying to beat the Yankees. We all know how that turned out, and it wasn't pretty.

Lowe will never close again his ego his mental makeup cant handle it anymore. The Rangers have done a nice job removing their head cases no need to add another one

[craven_fiend]

Delgado to the Marlins (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=mlb&id=1975158)

Mientkiewicz to the Mets (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1976211)

Most people have probably heard about these already, atleast Delgado to the Marlins, but I thought I'd post them anyways.

Delgado really does make the Marlins look like the team to beat in the NL East. But the Braves will probably end up winning it somehow.

[Javery]

Crap. I can't believe the Mets didn't get Delgado. Oh well, 2 out of 3 is still pretty good. The Marlins do look like the team to beat though. I think the NL East is loaded all of a sudden.

[dafoomie]

We got Denny Tomori, Japanese righty, throws side arm, 95mph, should be a good setup man. We needed bullpen help and we got it.

They're still trying to trade Kim to Japan, but no takers.

[johnnyoski]

Quite a bit in the Detroit newspapers lately about the Tigers interest in Maglio Ordonez.
I have some concerns about his health, but I was also worried about how well Pudge would hold up. That signing turned out to be the deal of the decade for us.

[Pure Apathy]

I'm so happy right now that the Cubs are trading Sosa away. I hope Hendry can pull the trigger on Magglio now. I've also heard talks that the Cubs will trade the prospects from the Baltimore deal to Tampa Bay for Arbury Huff.

http://espn.starwave.com/media/mlb/2005/0128/photo/sosatraded_ft.jpg

[Saucy Jack]

I'd rather Sosa retire today than not play for the Cubs.

I never thought I would see something like this be possible. If Sosa's gone, then I am seriously considering never watching baseball again.

I'm not being sarcastic. My roots with the Cubs are really deep. I don't feel like explaining them, but this is really hitting hard.

And I don't know who to believe. According to Cubs.com, there is no set deal with anyone, but who the hell knows nowadays?

I guess we'll see later today...

[dafoomie]

I'd rather Sosa retire today than not play for the Cubs.

I never thought I would see something like this be possible. If Sosa's gone, then I am seriously considering never watching baseball again.

I'm not being sarcastic. My roots with the Cubs are really deep. I don't feel like explaining them, but this is really hitting hard.

And I don't know who to believe. According to Cubs.com, there is no set deal with anyone, but who the hell knows nowadays?

I guess we'll see later today...
Sosa's on the downside, and he's grossly overpaid... Best thing for the Cubs would be to trade him, or his contract and lack of production will cripple them for years. Look at what Albert Belle did to the Orioles.

Its always a tough choice whether to keep your aging stars, or to trade them and get younger. Its usually the best for the team to get rid of the, or you get a situation like the Celtics when Bird, McHale, and Parrish were too old to play. The Celtics haven't yet recovered.

[WinnieThePujols]

Yeah, really...Sosa leaving the Cubs was a good thing. His relationship with the club has been deteriorating pretty fast, his numbers are way down, and along the same lines, he either homers or strike outs...with much more of the latter going on.

All offseason long I prayed that Sosa would stay in Chicago. Now he's going to leave. Now the Cubs are going to pick-up someone like Magglio. Now they've got a much more reliable closer in Jorge Julio. Now they become a better team...

Not what I wanted to see. I guess if there's a good way of looking at this, at least the Cubs took until after Beltran signed to get rid of Sosa...

[craven_fiend]

i'm glad to see sosa out of chicago, they both need to move on. and if i were magglio, i'd go to the tigers over the cubs. but then again, my NL is the lowly Reds, so anything to keep another NL Central team from bettering itself, is good for me.

On a side note, I almost forgot the 'Sox got Miller. I hope they are able to run the table this year, start to finish in the east and the title, which more than likely the east will be the only thing possibly happening.

hey you gotta be pesimistic(sp) or you are always going to be let down.

[jlarlee]

I'd rather Sosa retire today than not play for the Cubs.

I never thought I would see something like this be possible. If Sosa's gone, then I am seriously considering never watching baseball again.

I'm not being sarcastic. My roots with the Cubs are really deep. I don't feel like explaining them, but this is really hitting hard.

And I don't know who to believe. According to Cubs.com, there is no set deal with anyone, but who the hell knows nowadays?

I guess we'll see later today...
Sosa's on the downside, and he's grossly overpaid... Best thing for the Cubs would be to trade him, or his contract and lack of production will cripple them for years. Look at what Albert Belle did to the Orioles.

Its always a tough choice whether to keep your aging stars, or to trade them and get younger. Its usually the best for the team to get rid of the, or you get a situation like the Celtics when Bird, McHale, and Parrish were too old to play. The Celtics haven't yet recovered.
Not to go off topic but the celtics woes have a lot more to do with the deaths of Reggie Lewis and Len Bias.

[Mr.Answer]

I think this is a good move for everyone

the O's because its really what a one year contract but they needed to sign someone as they haven't signed anyone really for a number of years (that I can recall)

Sosa and the Cubs--both need life apart from each other,

Cards, Astros, Red---Sosa still had pop in the bat and the Cubs aren't going to replace that next year.

[jlarlee]

I think this is a good move for everyone

the O's because its really what a one year contract but they needed to sign someone as they haven't signed anyone really for a number of years (that I can recall)

Sosa and the Cubs--both need life apart from each other,

Cards, Astros, Red---Sosa still had pop in the bat and the Cubs aren't going to replace that next year.

Miguel Tejada is a pretty big signing. So is javy Lopez they were quite active last year

[Mr.Answer]

I think this is a good move for everyone

the O's because its really what a one year contract but they needed to sign someone as they haven't signed anyone really for a number of years (that I can recall)

Sosa and the Cubs--both need life apart from each other,

Cards, Astros, Red---Sosa still had pop in the bat and the Cubs aren't going to replace that next year.

Miguel Tejada is a pretty big signing. So is javy Lopez they were quite active last year

I forgot about Tejada---seems he is starting to fade off a bit though. Lopez-he's one of those guys for me that I've never really been to hip on. (read wouldn't draft on a fantasy baseball team) he might actually be great but something just makes me go blah with him.

[The Shiznit]

Tejada's stats last year:
AVG .311 HR34 RBI 150
I would say they look pretty good

[dafoomie]

I'd rather Sosa retire today than not play for the Cubs.

I never thought I would see something like this be possible. If Sosa's gone, then I am seriously considering never watching baseball again.

I'm not being sarcastic. My roots with the Cubs are really deep. I don't feel like explaining them, but this is really hitting hard.

And I don't know who to believe. According to Cubs.com, there is no set deal with anyone, but who the hell knows nowadays?

I guess we'll see later today...
Sosa's on the downside, and he's grossly overpaid... Best thing for the Cubs would be to trade him, or his contract and lack of production will cripple them for years. Look at what Albert Belle did to the Orioles.

Its always a tough choice whether to keep your aging stars, or to trade them and get younger. Its usually the best for the team to get rid of the, or you get a situation like the Celtics when Bird, McHale, and Parrish were too old to play. The Celtics haven't yet recovered.
Not to go off topic but the celtics woes have a lot more to do with the deaths of Reggie Lewis and Len Bias.
Len Bias: Big blow
Reggie Lewis: Big blow, but the team sucked with him anyway

It really has more to do with Pitino's mismanagement, the years befpre him were their attempt to tank for picks, because they didn't trade their aging stars away. And the mediocrity before that was because they held on to them.

But in any case, you have to get rid of aging, overpaid stars for your team to survive. If Sosa made 1/3rd of his salary, and wasn't such an asshole, it would make sense to keep him. But it doesn't.

[craven_fiend]

I think this is a good move for everyone

the O's because its really what a one year contract but they needed to sign someone as they haven't signed anyone really for a number of years (that I can recall)

Sosa and the Cubs--both need life apart from each other,

Cards, Astros, Red---Sosa still had pop in the bat and the Cubs aren't going to replace that next year.

Miguel Tejada is a pretty big signing. So is javy Lopez they were quite active last year

I forgot about Tejada---seems he is starting to fade off a bit though. Lopez-he's one of those guys for me that I've never really been to hip on. (read wouldn't draft on a fantasy baseball team) he might actually be great but something just makes me go blah with him.


for starting off slow, these numbers aren't too bad.


Tejada's stats last year:
AVG .311 HR34 RBI 150
I would say they look pretty good

[johnnyoski]

Local Detroit sports news is claiming the Tigers have signed Ordonez to a 5 yr / $75 million deal. Deal could go out to 7 yrs if certain incentives are met. It was also reported the Tigers have a clause to void the deal if there are recurring injuries with his knee.
Look for the official announcement to come Monday.
If he and Pudge can stay healthy I really like our chances to contend for the Central next season.

[GuilewasNK]

Orioles need pitching in the worst way. Sidney Ponson is NOT a number 1 starter.

[dafoomie]

Orioles need pitching in the worst way. Sidney Ponson is NOT a number 1 starter.
Sidney Ponson isn't even a #3 starter on a good team. Its mindboggling why they signed him again.

Did you hear Sir Sidney punched a judge in Aruba?

[Javery]

Orioles need pitching in the worst way. Sidney Ponson is NOT a number 1 starter.
Sidney Ponson isn't even a #3 starter on a good team. Its mindboggling why they signed him again.

Did you hear Sir Sidney punched a judge in Aruba?

yeah, that's funny. He also could stand to lose about 60 pounds...

[GuilewasNK]

Yeah, I heard Sidney is a pugilist of sorts...